Training Devices That Require No Tools or Construction Whatsoever!
TARPS
"If you can get a horse to walk across a tarp, you can get him to walk across nearly anything." -Debbie Bibb
Tarps can be walked over, splashed through, waved about like slickers or flags or crinkled for sound effects. Remember to always use a new tarp for ground work. Holes or weaknesses in the fabric can be disastrous if a horse gets a foot caught.
Cost:
Tarps can run from less than $5 to about $25 to the equivalent of a mortgage. The light ones make a great crackling effect. Heavier ones are better for walking on.
Thick, Capped 10' PVC Pipes (2 1/2" or more) or Ground Poles
PVC pipes can be filled with sand for stability and are extremely visible. Either pipes or wooden ground poles can be used to define a large box that can teach your horse to lengthen or shorten stride. They can also be arranged as walking or trotting poles, can simulate downed branches or make an "L" shape to practice backing. Most PVC pipe comes in standard 10' lengths. Cut with a saw to suit your needs.
Cost:
3" x 10' PVC pipe = $15, 23" slip caps @ $4 each = $8
Total Cost:
$23
NEWSPAPER
Many a horse has been spooked when its rider suddenly unfolded a map. Waving and crinkling newspaper around your horse's neck, over his back, behind his head, over his head, above or behind his tail, around his legs and belly can be an inexpensive and excellent first step in bomb-proofing.
Cost:
Call it recycling.
PLYWOOD
This can be an excellent introduction to bridges, platforms, trailer loading or any other activity which might come up that could create a spooky "hollow" sound when a horse puts his foot on wood. Hay bales on two sides can further "define" a bridge and encourage accuracy and obedience.
Cost:
A new 4' x 8' sheet of 1/2" plywood = $14.
FINALLY...
Two of the most important tools in any horseman's workbox are imagination and a sense of humor. Have fun!
Cost:
Priceless.
